Strip of embroidery c. 19th century

This strip of embroidery was made anonymously, we don’t know when. But what we do know is that textiles like this one provide invaluable insights into the social and cultural contexts in which they were created. Looking closely, the image reveals a meticulous arrangement of golden patterns against a deep red background. These visual codes are far from arbitrary; they are often deeply rooted in cultural references and historical associations, reflecting the values and beliefs of their creators and communities. Where was it made? When? Was it part of a wider tradition of textile production in a specific geographical area? What role did religion play? These questions help us place the artwork into a wider historical context. As art historians, our role is to uncover these hidden narratives. We consult a wide range of sources – historical documents, ethnographic studies, and material culture analyses – to shed light on the artwork’s meaning and significance.